Finding the perfect pair of headphones doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In today’s tech market, there are hundreds of budget-friendly options that deliver impressive sound quality, durable design, and reliable features. Whether you're a gamer, a daily commuter, a remote worker, or just someone who loves music, our guide to the best and cheap headphones will help you make the right choice without breaking the bank.
In this comprehensive roundup, we focus on three key categories: best cheap noise cancelling headphones, best cheap gaming headphones, and versatile all-around performers. Let’s dive into what makes these models the best value buys of 2025.
✅ What to Look for When Buying the Best and Cheap Headphones
Choosing the best and cheap headphones isn’t just about finding the lowest price. You want the highest performance within your budget. Here’s what to evaluate before you make your pick:
1. Audio Quality
Clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass make all the difference. The best and cheap headphones often surprise users with their well-balanced sound.
2. Comfort and Design
Ergonomics matter, especially for long hours of listening or gaming. Look for cushioned ear cups, adjustable headbands, and lightweight builds.
3. Battery Life (for Wireless Headphones)
Many of the best and cheap headphones now offer 30 to 60 hours of playback on a single charge—no need to compromise.
4. Noise Cancelling (Active vs Passive)
Best cheap noise cancelling headphones offer either active (ANC) or passive noise cancelling. Active models use built-in mics to cancel ambient noise, while passive rely on physical design.
5. Microphone and Controls
If you're considering the best cheap gaming headphones, mic quality is crucial for communication. Inline or detachable mics are common, and onboard controls add convenience.
6. Compatibility and Portability
Make sure your headphones work with your devices: PCs, consoles, mobile phones, and more. Foldable and lightweight models are easier to carry.
🎧 Best Cheap Noise Cancelling Headphones (2025 Picks)
The best cheap noise cancelling headphones are ideal for travelers, office workers, and anyone wanting peace and quiet. Here are our top 2025 budget-friendly picks that don’t compromise on silence.
🎧 Anker Soundcore Life Q20
- Price: ~$49
- Pros: Hybrid ANC, 40-hour battery, plush ear cups
- Cons: Slightly bulky design
- Best For: Daily commuting, long-distance travel
The Anker Soundcore Life Q20 consistently ranks as one of the best cheap noise cancelling headphones due to its impressive hybrid ANC technology. It filters out engine hums, crowd chatter, and other low-frequency noises efficiently.
🎧 TaoTronics SoundSurge 60
- Price: ~$45
- Pros: Fast charging, solid ANC, USB-C port
- Cons: Mids can be slightly recessed
- Best For: Remote workers, students
A go-to for budget-conscious users, the TaoTronics SoundSurge 60 is one of the best and cheap headphones offering dependable noise cancellation and clean, crisp audio for Zoom calls or Spotify sessions.
🎧 Tribit QuietPlus 72
- Price: ~$55
- Pros: Comfortable fit, effective ANC, 30h+ battery
- Cons: Average mic quality
- Best For: Quiet study sessions, podcast listening
One of the most reliable best cheap noise cancelling headphones, Tribit QuietPlus 72 is well-built and comfortable, with ANC that cancels ambient noise in coffee shops and libraries.
🎧 OneOdio A10
- Price: ~$59
- Pros: Premium build, ANC, foldable design
- Cons: Slight pressure on ears for larger heads
- Best For: Commuters and casual listeners
OneOdio A10 is among the best and cheap headphones if you're looking for a solid mix of performance and design. The ANC is capable, and the comfort makes it a great all-day companion.
🎧 Srhythm NC25
- Price: ~$50
- Pros: Lightweight, ANC, aptX support
- Cons: Build quality is average
- Best For: Audiobook lovers and students
Srhythm NC25 proves that the best cheap noise cancelling headphones can include high-end features like aptX audio decoding while staying budget-friendly.
🎮 Best Cheap Gaming Headphones for PC, Console & Mobile
Looking to level up your game without leveling down your wallet? These best cheap gaming headphones deliver surround sound, crisp mics, and comfort during marathon sessions.
🎧 Corsair HS35 Stereo Gaming Headset
- Price: ~$35
- Pros: Compatible with all platforms, clear mic, durable
- Cons: Lacks 7.1 surround
- Best For: Console gamers (PS5, Xbox, Switch)
As one of the best cheap gaming headphones, the HS35 offers robust construction and impressive audio for a budget model.
🎧 Redragon H510 Zeus-X
- Price: ~$45
- Pros: Virtual 7.1 surround, metal frame, great mic
- Cons: Heavy
- Best For: PC gaming
The Redragon H510 stands out among best and cheap headphones for its immersive audio and premium design.
🎧 EKSA E900 Wired Gaming Headset
- Price: ~$30
- Pros: Plug-and-play, great isolation, budget-friendly
- Cons: Non-detachable mic
- Best For: Cross-platform use
A true champion among best cheap gaming headphones, the EKSA E900 delivers powerful stereo sound and a soft ear cushion design.
🎧 BENGOO G9000
- Price: ~$25
- Pros: RGB lighting, clear mic, volume control
- Cons: Basic build
- Best For: Entry-level gamers
Popular on Amazon, the BENGOO G9000 proves that best and cheap headphones can still bring style and performance to the table.
🎧 Jeecoo Xiberia V20
- Price: ~$40
- Pros: Noise-isolating mic, 50mm drivers, USB interface
- Cons: PC only
- Best For: Streaming and Discord chats
Jeecoo V20 is a hidden gem in the best cheap gaming headphones category thanks to its full-range sound and dedicated software customization.
🌟 Editor’s Picks: Overall Best and Cheap Headphones
Can’t decide between gaming, music, or commuting use? These all-around models are our top best and cheap headphones that adapt to every scenario.
Headphone | Best For | Price | Noise Cancelling | Mic |
---|---|---|---|---|
Anker Life Q20 | Travel, Commute | $49 | ✅ | ✅ |
Corsair HS35 | Gaming | $35 | ❌ | ✅ |
Tribit QuietPlus 72 | Study, Work | $55 | ✅ | ❌ |
Redragon Zeus-X H510 | Gaming + Voice Chat | $45 | ❌ | ✅ |
EKSA E900 | Multi-use | $30 | ❌ | ✅ |
💡 How to Spot a Good Deal on Headphones
Finding the best and cheap headphones isn’t just about grabbing the first pair with a low price tag. Smart shoppers know that timing, comparison, and a bit of strategy can go a long way in scoring the best cheap noise cancelling headphones or even high-performing best cheap gaming headphones without breaking the bank. Here are a few expert-backed tactics to help you land a real bargain.
🛍️ 1. Shop During Major Sales Events
One of the most effective ways to find the best and cheap headphones is to target seasonal sales events. Black Friday and Cyber Monday are well-known for tech bargains, but don’t overlook mid-year deals like Amazon Prime Day, Singles' Day on AliExpress, and back-to-school promotions. These are golden opportunities to grab the best cheap noise cancelling headphones and best cheap gaming headphones at heavily reduced prices. Brands often launch limited-time flash deals, especially on older but still high-quality models, making it the perfect time to buy.
For example, during Black Friday last year, several top-rated best cheap gaming headphones from brands like Corsair and HyperX were available at up to 40% off. Similarly, best cheap noise cancelling headphones from Anker, JBL, and Soundcore saw significant discounts on Cyber Monday, proving that patience pays off.
🌐 2. Compare Prices Across Platforms
Never rely on just one platform—comparison is key. While Amazon is a go-to for many shoppers, deals can often vary across websites. Check Walmart, Target, Best Buy, B&H Photo, AliExpress, and even the official websites of headphone brands. Some platforms offer exclusive bundles or bonus accessories like carrying cases, detachable mics, or extended warranties, which increase the value of your purchase without extra cost.
It's not uncommon to find the same model of best and cheap headphones selling for $10–$20 less on one platform than another. In particular, AliExpress is known for listing emerging brands offering surprisingly capable best cheap gaming headphones, especially if you're okay with waiting a little longer for international shipping.
💸 3. Look for Coupons and First-Time Discounts
Many shoppers miss out on additional savings simply because they skip signing up for newsletters or coupon alerts. A quick sign-up can often get you an instant 10–20% discount on your first order, especially on direct-to-consumer headphone brands. Also, platforms like Honey or RetailMeNot can automatically apply the latest promo codes at checkout.
This is especially helpful when purchasing best cheap noise cancelling headphones, as higher-end models that usually cost $100+ can be brought closer to the $50–$70 range with the right promo code. Keep an eye out for "spin-the-wheel" discounts or referral bonuses on brand websites—these can slash prices further and help you afford premium best and cheap headphones.
🔄 4. Don’t Overlook Certified Refurbished Models
Refurbished doesn’t mean second-rate. Many top manufacturers and sellers offer certified refurbished versions of their products that have been professionally tested and cleaned, often coming with the same warranty as new models. You can easily find best cheap gaming headphones and even best cheap noise cancelling headphones refurbished at a fraction of the original price—sometimes up to 50% off.
Sites like eBay, Amazon Renewed, and official brand outlets (such as Bose, Sony, and SteelSeries) have robust refurbished programs. Buying refurbished allows you to enjoy superior features—like hybrid ANC or virtual surround sound—without paying a premium. For budget-conscious gamers and audiophiles alike, this is a smart and sustainable option for buying best and cheap headphones.
❓ FAQ: Best Cheap Noise Cancelling and Gaming Headphones
Q: Are cheap noise cancelling headphones really effective?
A: Absolutely! While they may not match $300+ ANC models, many of the best cheap noise cancelling headphones reduce background hum and low-frequency noise effectively.
Q: Can I use cheap gaming headphones with PS5 and Xbox?
A: Yes. Most best cheap gaming headphones with a 3.5mm jack are plug-and-play with all major consoles.
Q: What’s the difference between active and passive noise cancelling?
A: Active uses electronics to cancel sound. Passive relies on padding and design. Many best and cheap headphones use both methods together.
Q: Are wired headphones better than wireless ones in the cheap segment?
A: For gaming and real-time audio, yes. Wired best cheap gaming headphones have lower latency and more stable performance.
🔮 Bonus: Upcoming Best and Cheap Headphones in 2025
Keep an eye out for these future releases that may soon dominate the best and cheap headphones market:
- SoundPEATS ANC 10 Pro – Promises improved ANC and better call clarity.
- Razer Hammerhead Budget Series – Designed for mobile gamers.
- OneOdio A20 Pro – Upgraded comfort and wireless performance.
- Logitech GX50 – Expected to enter the best cheap gaming headphones category with spatial audio support.
📅 Conclusion
Buying quality headphones on a budget is completely achievable in 2025. The models we’ve covered are not only affordable but also deliver great sound, comfort, and features. Whether you need the best cheap noise cancelling headphones for commuting or the best cheap gaming headphones for intense matches, there’s something in this guide for every listener.
Don’t let price tags fool you—some of the best and cheap headphones outperform mid-range rivals. Have you tried any from our list? Drop a comment and share your experience!